CCSO report – On May 7, 2020, at about 3:43 PM, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a possible drowning in the area behind Dunes Mobile Ranch in Lakeside. Marine deputies initiated a search by water and deputies were stationed along the bank nearby in an attempt to locate the victim, identified as 69 year old Larry Ray Gabbard, and provide aid if they could. Mr. Gabbard was not located. The coast guard deployed a helicopter in aid of the search and the County Search and Rescue team was activated, as well as the dive team from Bandon Fire. Sadly, Mr. Gabbard’s remains were located near where he was last seen. The investigation revealed that Mr. Gabbard and some friends were improving a fishing area nearby. Mr. Gabbard had seen a log across the creek which he intended to use as an improvement to their project. Mr. Gabbard tied a rope to his belt loop and attempted to cross the river. At that time of that day, there was a strong outgoing tide. Mr. Gabbard was not able to swim against the current. When Mr. Gabbard’s friends tried to pull him back in, his belt loop broke and he was caught by the current. The Coos County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public that as the weather warms, swimming can still be hazardous. Water temperatures remain cool which may lead to hypothermia. As always personal flotation devices are encouraged or required in water activities. The Coos County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the United States Coast Guard Station North Bend, Lakeside Fire Department and Coos County Search and Rescue.
